Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about my future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and introverted self was equipped for. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of entering university, and if you’re an upcoming student, it could be a primary concern for you. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet people. Today, though, I can assertively say I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships here at this university and in this program. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I learned? I’ve learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With such a varied range of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was coping with the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a distinct shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be harsh on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A couple of things aided me in overcoming that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear, I can nearly guarantee others are puzzled too. So, do ask for assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek guidance from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had leveraged it earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This responsibility helped me connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this facet of university life is to fully utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
Ultimately, this year has shown me that feelings of apprehension, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased by the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never solitary and how to enjoy myself despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.